The boxing community is mourning the loss of former welterweight contender Carson Jones, who passed away at the age of 38 due to complications following throat surgery.
Jones, a fierce competitor from Oklahoma City, was widely respected for his toughness and perseverance in the ring.
A warrior in and out of the ring
Jones last fought in 2023, delivering a knockout victory over James Warren in just two rounds. His final record stands at 44 wins, 16 losses, and 3 draws, with 32 of those wins coming by knockout.
However, his career-defining moment came in 2012 when he faced future world champion Kell Brook in a high-profile showdown in Sheffield, England. Despite being the underdog, Jones pushed Brook to the limit in a brutal 12-round battle, leaving his opponent bloodied and battered. Though he lost via majority decision, his performance earned him immense respect in the boxing world.
Brook was among the first to pay tribute, writing on social media, “This man was a true warrior and it was a pleasure sharing the boxing ring with him. My heart goes out to the Jones family. RIP my beautiful brother.”
Battling through adversity
Jones‘ career saw him embrace the role of a gatekeeper, testing rising stars and taking on formidable opponents. He shared the ring with elite fighters such as Brian Rose, Antonio Margarito, Ted Cheeseman, and Steven Butler. His resilience extended beyond boxing-after struggling with alcohol dependency, Jones made a successful comeback in 2022, winning three of his last four fights.
However, his biggest fight came outside the ring. In early 2024, Jones was diagnosed with achalasia, a rare swallowing disorder that significantly impacted his health. He remained hopeful, sharing his journey with fans on social media. In a post dated February 19, he expressed relief about his upcoming surgery, unaware it would ultimately lead to his untimely passing.
Carson Jones was not only a skilled fighter but also a beloved figure in the sport. His determination, honesty, and fighting spirit will be remembered by fans, fellow boxers, and all who knew him. The boxing world has lost a true warrior, but his legacy will live on.
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